TPO roofing systems have been around since the early 1990s and have grown in popularity, becoming one of the top roofing choices for commercial building owners and even being used on residential low-slope roofs today. In Arizona, TPO is a durable, reflective roof material that withstands sunlight, heat, and UV rays, costs less than other roofing systems, and still has excellent warranties from manufacturers. It performs well in all areas of Arizona, from Tucson and Phoenix to the mountain regions of Prescott and Flagstaff.
About TPO Roofing Systems
What is TPO Roofing?
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) is a single-ply membrane roofing system typically installed over insulation boards like polyiso. A cover board is then added to protect the insulation and provide a smooth surface for the membrane. The insulation board enhances your ceiling and roof insulation ratings, required by current energy codes depending on your climate zone. Combining the high reflectivity of the TPO membrane with the insulation board offers roofs in Arizona the best possible energy efficiency given the abundant sunlight.
Manufacturers and Materials
There are many different suppliers and manufacturers of TPO membrane, including Carlisle Syntec, GAF, Versico, MuleHide, Holcim Elevate, and many smaller brands. M&M Roofing is experienced in installing all types of TPO across Arizona. TPO also comes in different thicknesses, including 45mil, 60mil, and 90mil. The thickness can correlate with a longer life. We recommend using a minimum of 60mil from reputable manufacturers like those listed above. These companies have been manufacturing TPO for decades, and their products have proven their durability, which is crucial in Arizona’s extreme heat, powerful sunlight, temperature variations, and occasional snow in areas like Prescott and Flagstaff.
The TPO Roofing System in Arizona
Roof Preparation and Insulation
A typical TPO roof system in Arizona begins with a thorough inspection of the roof deck, which must be in sound condition. Next, insulation board is securely fastened to the deck, commonly specified as R-30 on new construction plans in areas like Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Prescott. This usually involves two layers of approximately 2.6″ thick insulation board, depending on the manufacturer. The insulation must be fastened securely to the roof deck using screws and insulation plates, with fastening patterns varying based on factors like manufacturer, engineer specifications, and wind ratings.
Taper Board for Water Drainage
Depending on the pre-existing slope of the roof, taper board may be needed across the entire roof or just in certain areas. This board slopes 1/4″ per foot to facilitate water drainage towards scuppers or roof drains, an essential part of the roofing system if there’s no existing slope or if it’s sloped improperly. M&M Roofing collaborates with preferred manufacturers to create an effective drainage plan for your roof.
Cover Board Installation
A cover board, a 1/4″ to 1/2″ sheet of material, is installed on top of the taper board and insulation to prepare it for the membrane. This can be another layer of insulation board with a high compressive rating or a DensDeck board, a fiberglass-gypsum material. The cover board protects the insulation underneath, makes the membrane harder to damage, and provides a smooth, strong surface for the membrane application.
Applying the TPO Membrane
The roof is now ready for the TPO membrane. TPO comes in rolls from 5′ to 12′ wide and is applied either mechanically fastened or fully adhered, or a combination of both.
- Mechanically Fastened TPO System: This method involves laying down the TPO membrane over the cover board and securing it along the seams with screws and large washers. The next roll overlaps these screws and washers, with the seams heat-welded to create a waterproof system.
- Fully Adhered TPO System: This system uses special adhesive applied to the cover board before rolling the TPO membrane over it. Once the adhesive sets, the roof system remains in place. Like mechanically fastened systems, the seams are heat-welded to create a continuous roofing system.
Lifespan and Warranties
About M&M Roofing
M&M Roofing has been installing low-slope roof systems across Arizona since 1984 and has been working with TPO since its early days. We service the entire state, including Tucson, the Phoenix metro area (Queen Creek, Gilbert, Chandler, Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, Glendale, Goodyear, Avondale, Peoria, and outlying areas), Prescott, Flagstaff, Kingman, and everywhere in between. Give us a call to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) roofing is a single-ply roofing membrane made from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber polymerized together. It is known for its durability, energy efficiency, and resistance to UV radiation.
Choosing between TPO and EPDM roofing depends on specific project requirements. TPO roofing is often preferred for its energy efficiency, as it typically reflects sunlight and helps reduce cooling costs. EPDM roofing, on the other hand, is known for its durability and resistance to weathering. The choice between TPO and EPDM often depends on factors such as climate, budget, and specific performance requirements.
When properly installed and maintained, TPO roofs can last between 20 to 30 years or more. Factors such as climate, installation quality, and maintenance practices can affect the lifespan of a TPO roof.
TPO roofing is generally considered cost-effective compared to other roofing materials like PVC or metal. Its affordability, combined with its durability and energy-saving properties, makes TPO a popular choice for commercial and residential roofing projects.
Yes, TPO roofing membranes are repairable. Common repairs include patching punctures, fixing seams, or addressing areas where the membrane has been damaged. It’s important to use compatible materials and follow manufacturer guidelines for repairs to ensure the integrity of the roof remains intact.
TPO roofing typically consists of a single-ply membrane, which means it is installed as a single layer. However, in certain roofing systems, additional layers such as insulation or underlayment may be used beneath the TPO membrane to provide added protection and insulation.